MS HB1022

Removes the minimum age requirement of 21 years for jury service, allowing any qualified elector to serve as a competent juror.

Defines qualified jurors as citizens who are either qualified electors under Section 23-15-11 or resident freeholders of the county for more than one year, able to read and write, with no felony convictions or certain other disqualifications.

Requires presiding judges to distribute a written form to prospective jurors to assess their ability to read and write before empaneling, with those unable to complete the form disqualified from service.

Maintains existing disqualifications including those convicted of infamous crimes or unlawful sale of intoxicating liquors within five years, common gamblers, habitual drunkards, and road overseers within the preceding twelve months.

Requires submission to the U.S. Attorney General or U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for review under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, with the act taking effect upon approval under Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.